Where is Jamaica Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Jamaica located on the map? Jamaica is an independent nation located in North America. Check out the following images to see location of Jamaica on maps.

Jamaica Location in World Map

Jamaica is in the Caribbean as you can see on the map.

Location Information of Jamaica

Jamaica is a Caribbean island nation located in the western part of the Caribbean Sea. It lies to the south of Cuba and to the west of Hispaniola (the island shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic). The island’s tropical setting, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture make it a major tourist destination. The country’s location also makes it an important hub for maritime trade and cultural exchange, particularly within the Caribbean region.

Latitude and Longitude

Jamaica is situated between 17° 43′ N and 18° 33′ N latitude, and 76° 11′ W and 78° 30′ W longitude. The island spans approximately 146 miles (235 kilometers) from east to west and 51 miles (82 kilometers) from north to south. The coordinates place Jamaica in the Caribbean Sea, roughly 90 miles (145 kilometers) south of Cuba and about 120 miles (193 kilometers) west of Hispaniola.

Capital City and Major Cities

Jamaica’s capital and largest city is Kingston, located on the southeastern coast of the island. While Kingston is the center of government, culture, and economic activity, several other cities, towns, and coastal areas contribute significantly to the island’s diversity and economic activity. Among these are Montego Bay, Spanish Town, Mandeville, and Negril.

Kingston (Capital City)

Kingston, with a population of around 670,000, is the capital and economic heart of Jamaica. The city is known for its lively cultural scene, vibrant music, and rich history. Kingston is the birthplace of reggae music, made famous by Bob Marley. The Bob Marley Museum is located in the city, a popular attraction for visitors. Kingston also hosts several other cultural venues, such as the National Gallery of Jamaica and the Independence Park, where the National Stadium and the Emancipation Park are located.

As the political and business capital, Kingston houses the Government of Jamaica and is home to important commercial sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and finance. Despite its economic significance, Kingston faces challenges common in urban centers, such as traffic congestion and social inequality.

Montego Bay

Located on the northwestern coast of Jamaica, Montego Bay is the island’s second-largest city and a major tourist destination. Known for its white sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, Montego Bay is often the first point of entry for tourists, thanks to its Sangster International Airport. The city is a hub for the tourism industry, with attractions such as the Rose Hall Great House, Doctor’s Cave Beach, and Dunn’s River Falls being popular with visitors. Montego Bay also has a lively shopping scene, with markets and luxury outlets catering to international tourists.

Spanish Town

Spanish Town is located in the southern part of Jamaica, near the island’s capital, Kingston. As the former capital of Jamaica during the colonial period, Spanish Town is rich in historical significance. It was founded in 1534 and served as the capital under the Spanish and British rule. The city features historical landmarks such as the St. Catherine Parish Church, Spanish Town Square, and the Old King’s House. Today, Spanish Town is a growing urban area, with a mix of residential, commercial, and agricultural activities.

Mandeville

Located in the central part of Jamaica, Mandeville serves as the capital of Manchester Parish. This small city is nestled in the cool, hilly interior of the island, making it a popular escape from the heat of the coastal cities. Mandeville is known for its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and historical significance. Attractions in the region include the Mandeville Market and the Alligator Pond. It is a regional hub for agriculture, with farming activities in the surrounding areas.

Negril

Negril, located on the western coast, is a famous resort town known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Seven Mile Beach is the highlight of Negril, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The town is a popular destination for both couples seeking romantic retreats and adventure-seekers interested in activities like snorkeling and diving. Negril Cliffs and the nearby Negril Lighthouse also offer stunning views of the coastline.

Time Zone

Jamaica operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC -5:00. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), meaning that its time remains the same throughout the year. This provides some convenience for travelers and businesses as they do not have to adjust for seasonal time changes. As a result, Jamaica’s time zone aligns with cities like New York City during the winter months, though there is a difference in the summer when those cities observe DST.

Climate

Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The island’s climate is characterized by wet and dry seasons, with significant regional variation depending on elevation and proximity to the coast.

Temperature and Seasons

The average temperature in Jamaica hovers between 77°F (25°C) and 88°F (31°C) year-round, making it a popular destination for those seeking warm weather. The coastal areas, including cities like Montego Bay and Kingston, maintain relatively constant temperatures, while the interior of the island can be cooler due to higher elevations. The island experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season.

Wet Season: Typically lasting from May to November, the wet season brings higher humidity, frequent rainfall, and the possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, especially from August to October. These storms can affect the island’s coastal regions, but hurricanes are not as frequent or severe as in some other parts of the Caribbean.
Dry Season: Running from December to April, the dry season is Jamaica’s peak tourist period, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The clear skies and warm temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities, particularly beach vacations and sightseeing.

Hurricane Season

Jamaica falls within the Caribbean hurricane belt, making the island susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes during the peak season, which runs from June to November. However, the island is not hit by hurricanes every year, and the occurrence of major hurricanes is relatively rare.

Economic Status

Jamaica is classified as an upper-middle-income country with a growing economy that relies on a mix of agriculture, services, and tourism. Despite facing challenges such as high debt levels and crime, Jamaica has a diverse and developing economy that supports a variety of industries.

Key Economic Sectors

Tourism: Jamaica’s tourism industry is the country’s largest foreign exchange earner and a crucial part of the economy. The island’s natural beauty, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage attract millions of visitors annually. Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios are the major resort areas. In addition to traditional beach tourism, Jamaica has seen an increase in ecotourism and adventure tourism, with visitors exploring the island’s mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Agriculture: Agriculture remains an important sector in Jamaica, with the island producing sugar, bananas, coffee, and pimento (allspice). Sugar was historically one of Jamaica’s most valuable exports, but the sector has faced difficulties in recent years. Coffee, particularly Blue Mountain Coffee, remains highly sought after, and the island is a major exporter of this premium product.
Manufacturing: Jamaica’s manufacturing sector is diversified, producing goods such as aluminum, rum, cement, and bauxite. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of bauxite, which is the raw material for aluminum production. Manufacturing also extends to products such as clothing, food, and beverages.
Services: The services sector, which includes banking, retail, and telecommunications, contributes significantly to the economy. The government has made efforts to foster a business-friendly environment, particularly in the financial services and information technology sectors.

Challenges

Despite its strengths, Jamaica faces several economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, poverty, and a significant public debt burden. Additionally, crime and violence in certain areas can deter potential investors and tourists. However, the Jamaican government has worked towards addressing these issues through economic reforms, international partnerships, and public safety initiatives.

Tourist Attractions

Jamaica is a top tourist destination, offering a wide variety of attractions for all types of travelers. From its beautiful beaches to its cultural heritage sites, the island offers something for everyone.

Negril Beach (Seven Mile Beach)

The famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril is one of the most well-known and scenic beaches in the Caribbean. The white sand, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere attract thousands of tourists each year. Visitors can enjoy water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming, or simply relax on the shore under the sun.

Dunn’s River Falls

Located near Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s most iconic natural attractions. Visitors can climb the falls, a unique experience where you ascend the cascading water while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Bob Marley Museum

The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is a must-see for music lovers and fans of reggae. The museum is located in the former home of the legendary reggae musician and offers an in-depth look at his life, legacy, and the global impact of his music.

Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are one of Jamaica’s most beautiful natural landmarks. Known for their cool climate and breathtaking views, the mountains are popular for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring the island’s coffee plantations. Blue Mountain Coffee is considered some of the best coffee in the world, and visitors can tour plantations to see how it is cultivated and processed.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens visiting Jamaica for tourism do not require a visa for stays of 90 days or less. A valid U.S. passport is required for entry, and travelers must also provide evidence of their return or onward journey. Those planning to stay for longer periods or engage in activities such as business or work may need to apply for an appropriate visa.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

From New York City to Kingston: The flight distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston is approximately 1,600 miles (2,575 kilometers). The flight typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.
From Los Angeles to Kingston: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Kingston is about 3,500 miles (5,633 kilometers). Flights from Los Angeles to Kingston usually take about 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on the route and layovers.

Jamaica Facts

Size	10,991 km²
Residents	2.93 million
Language	English
Capital	Kingston
Longest river	Rio Minho (92 km)
Highest mountain	Blue Mountain Peak (2,256 m)
Currency	Jamaican dollar